KH-2002 Khaybar

   The KH-2002 Khaybar assault rifle is a recent Iranian development. It is named after the legendary battle of Khaybar. This weapon was first revealed in 2004. It is intended to replace the ageing German HK G3 assault rifles, license-produced in Iran. It seems that this assault rifle is already in service with Iran.

   The KH-2002 is a gas operated selective fire assault rifle with a bullpup design. Generally it is a bullpup conversion of the Iranian DIO S-5.56 assault rifle (clone of the M16A1). This weapon is chambered for the standard NATO 5.56x45 mm ammunition. A claimed effective range of fire is about 450 m.

   This firearm has a plastic housing. Charging handle is located on top of the receiver, under the carrying handle, so the weapon can be loaded using either hand. However the KH-2002 Khaybar is not fully ambidextrous, as there is only one spent case ejection port and one fire mode selector switch. The fire mode selector is located well behind the magazine. It has single shots, three round burst and full-auto modes. There is an automatic safety lock, built into the pistol grip. Enlarged triggerguard of this assault rifle allows to fire wearing winter gloves.

   The KH-2002 Khaybar is compatible with the standard NATO (M16-type) magazines, holding 20 or 30 rounds.

   Iron sights of this assault rifle are built into the carrying handle. It seems that the KH-2002 can also mount Picatinny-type sights. This weapon is compatible with a bayonet and detachable folding bipod. Recent production version has additional accessory rails over the foregrip.

   The Khaybar assault rifle is available in two more variants: carbine, with a shorter barrel and a dedicated marksman rifle, with a longer barrel.